5 Most Popular Religions in the World

2. Islam

No. of Adherents: 1.907 billion

Islam is a monotheistic Abrahamic religion founded in the 7th century CE by the Prophet Muhammad in the Arabian Peninsula. Its followers, known as Muslims, adhere to the teachings of the Quran, believed to be the word of God as revealed to Muhammad, and the Hadith, his sayings and actions. Islam emphasizes the five pillars of faith: the declaration of faith (Shahada), prayer (Salah), charity (Zakat), fasting (Sawm) during Ramadan, and pilgrimage (Hajj) to Mecca for those who are able. Islam is characterized by its emphasis on submission to the will of Allah and the importance of community and social justice. Muslims follow Islamic law (Sharia), which governs aspects of personal and communal life, including ethics, family law, and worship practices. Islam encompasses a diversity of cultures, traditions, and interpretations, with major branches including Sunni and Shia Islam, as well as various Sufi orders.